Principal Technical Consultant: Nature and Biodiversity

Quality, Governance & Continuous Improvement

• Champion high standards of health, safety, and environmental performance.
• Contribute to internal technical communities, guidance development, and innovation initiatives.
• Support continuous improvement in ecology delivery efficiency and consistency.

Skills & Experience

Essential

• Degree (or higher) in Ecology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Extensive experience delivering ecological consultancy services in Ireland and the UK.
• Strong working knowledge of wildlife legislation, planning policy, and environmental consenting processes.
• Proven experience leading ecology inputs to EIAs and large infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, programmes, and client relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable

• Membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. CIEEM) at an appropriate level.
• Chartered Ecologist or working towards chartership.
• Specialist expertise (e.g. ornithology, freshwater ecology, BNG, protected species licensing).
• Experience working within multidisciplinary project teams.
• Experience contributing to frameworks or long‑term client programmes.

Behaviours & Attributes

• Credible senior technical authority with a collaborative mindset.
• Commercially aware and delivery‑focused.
• Calm and pragmatic under pressure.
• Committed to developing people and building high‑performing teams.
• Aligned with ERM values and purpose‑led consultancy.

Reporting & Interfaces

• Reports to: Ecology Team Lead / Technical Discipline Lead
• Works closely with: EIA Leads, Project Managers, Technical Directors, and CPD Leadership
• Interfaces with clients, regulators, and statutory consultees

Why This Role Matters

Principal Ecologists play a critical role in enabling CPD to deliver complex projects efficiently, manage ecological risk for clients, and maintain ERM’s reputation for technical excellence while supporting sustainable growth.

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ERM is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to thrive, it’s an essential part of what makes ERM a great place to build a career and helps us create better solutions for our clients.

We welcome talent from all backgrounds and provide equal opportunities for every candidate. If you have a disability, are neurodivergent, or need accommodations during the selection process, we’re here to support you. Our commitment doesn’t stop at hiring. Once you join us, we’ll ensure you have the tools, support, and adjustments needed to succeed and feel a true sense of belonging. Learn more about our Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging (DIB) efforts by visiting our website or exploring our 2025 Sustainability Report..